Thai police arrest Buddhist abbot on suspicion of embezzling $2.8m
Thai police have arrested a 66-year-old Buddhist abbot on charges of embezzlement and money laundering involving $2.8 million in temple funds. The arrest follows a public scandal involving leaked footage of the monk engaging in sexual activity, which is a violation of his vows of celibacy.
Why it matters
The case highlights ongoing issues regarding financial transparency and moral conduct within Thailand's religious institutions, fueling public demands for stricter oversight.
Police officers escort Phra Wachirayan Wi outside the Central Investigation Bureau in Bangkok on Thursday./Getty Images Police officers escort Phra Wachirayan Wi outside the Central Investigation Bureau in Bangkok on Thursday./Getty Images Thailand Thai police arrest Buddhist abbot on suspicion of embezzling $2.8m Phra Wachirayan Wi arrested alongside woman he was filmed having sex with in latest scandal to hit country’s clergy
Prefer the Guardian on Google Police in Thailand have arrested a senior Buddhist monk on suspicion of embezzling $2.8m intended for his monastery, alongside a suspected female accomplice he was filmed having sex with.
The case is the latest scandal to hit the clergy in Buddhist-majority country, after a sex and extortion case involving senior monks last year prompted public outrage and calls for greater scrutiny of temple finances.
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